Club World Cup: Ahmed Kouka 'happy to play the opening match'

Africa 13 June 2025 at 12:40

Aliou Toundé

News Editor

On the eve of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Ahmed Kouka is showing an impressive and clear mindset. For the Al Ahly striker, there's no room for doubt—even with Leo Messi on the other side.

The Egyptians will kick off the tournament against Lionel Messi's Inter Miami, a global blockbuster that Ahmed Kouka sees as a springboard:

I'm very happy that we're playing the opening match. The whole world will be watching this game, especially with Messi on the pitch, a man who literally speaks to the ball. This match is crucial. It's the key to our journey.

For the forward, just participating isn't enough. Al Ahly is aiming much higher. And, in his eyes, the new signings are bringing fresh energy:

We've signed excellent players. This kind of tournament is the ultimate motivation for them.

Up against the giants of Group A—Palmeiras, Porto, and of course Inter Miami—Ahmed Kouka refuses to be intimidated. His goal: to make his African continent shine in the United States:

I don't think the number of stars is a burden. On the contrary, true stars are born in the biggest clubs. I'm convinced we'll rise to the occasion. We're going to give 100 percent, with passion, to make our fans proud. This competition could be a turning point for us. It's up to us to write our own story.

As a reminder, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off on June 15 with the opening match between Inter Miami and Al Ahly.